From white sand beaches to misty cloud forests, towering volcanoes, beautiful rivers that cut through tropical canyons, and hospitable, friendly communities, Costa Rica has it all. Having abolished its military over 50 years ago, this tiny democratic republic has long been known for its pacifism, commitment to environmental protection, and its status as a destination for those seeking safe yet exciting adventure travel set against breathtaking scenery. However, despite its natural beauty and extensive tourism industry, in many parts of Costa Rica there is need for help and service. Our programs offer unique access to Costa Rica’s best-kept secrets and friendliest communities. We are confident you will love the land of Pura Vida as much as we do!
SAMPLE ITINERARIES
SAN JOSÉ
Travelers can experience one of the most cosmopolitan Central American cities as we explore colonial courtyards, busy avenues and quaint neighborhoods. In addition to being the transportation hub of Costa Rica, the city offers a wealth of cultural opportunities such as Latin dance lessons.
PURA SUERTE
Nestled high in the tropical mountains overlooking the Pacific Coast, Pura Suerte is an ecological retreat outfitted with impressive bamboo bungalows and a fabulous restaurant that specializes in organic cuisine. Participants will learn about sustainable agriculture and rainforest ecology through a variety of adventurous activities. Groups can explore the surrounding jungle, hike along breathtaking passes to secluded waterfalls, learn to cook dishes made from organic ingredients, or relax in hammocks while rain pelts against the jungle canopy.
MANUEL ANTONIO
Participants will love Manuel Antonio, a beautiful white sand beach and national park on the Pacific coast. Famous for its wildlife, Manuel Antonio is home to sloths, monkeys, a stunning variety of birds, and much more. Those who are interested in surfing can take professional lessons and apply their practice to waves renowned for their ease and consistency. At night we can gather around bonfires on the shore and eat fresh seafood caught during the day.
HOST VILLAGE & HOMESTAY
For those interested, Costa Rica has some of the most welcoming and hospitable communities in the world. In the village our groups have two options: homestays and communal living. During the homestays participants will live with local families where they will significantly improve their Spanish and experience firsthand an intimate snapshot of Costa Rican family life. While we understand the thought of living with another family can be intimidating, we are convinced through personal experience that homestays are extremely rewarding. Walking Tree has carefully selected each host family to ensure it makes the student’s experience comfortable and enriching. For those that choose communal housing, travelers will share a space that is separated by gender and help members of the community prepare local food.Days in the village are spent working on a variety of community service projects that are decided upon in conjunction with the community to ensure their usefulness. Some projects will necessitate construction while others will be less labor-intensive. The days will begin early and end in the afternoon, broken up by a midday break. They promise to be long and rewarding. When not working on the community service projects, our students will have free time to spend with their families if they are doing homestays, practice Spanish, play soccer, make friends with local youth, and attend community gatherings. At the end of our time in the village, we will have a fiesta de despedida, or going away party, to say goodbye to the community that has been our home.
ARENAL
La Fortuna is the small town that enjoys the shade of one of Costa Rica’s most impressive landmarks, the Arenal Volcano. The group can hike down to La Catarata de la Fortuna, an impressive waterfall, or plunge into refreshing rivers from suspended tire swings. At night we will bathe in luxurious natural hot springs and, if the weather is clear, watch as lava erupts from Arenal’s cone.
MONTEVERDE
Costa Rica is famous for its cloud forests, and this is one of its best. Travelers will take a canopy tour where they are safely harnessed into a series of zip lines and soar over old growth canopy and enjoy the excitement of a “Tarzan Swing.” We will also have the option to tour a coffee plantation, take a guided nature walk through the forest to learn more about the unique flora and fauna, practice yoga at a world-class studio, and sample excellent ice cream at the local dairy factory.
WHITE WATER RAFTING
According to the Discovery Channel, the Pacuare River is one of the five most beautiful rivers in the world, but we find it hard to imagine that there is anything better. Participants will safely navigate class II and III rapids that weave through a breathtaking tropical canyon. There are one-day and twoday tours that run the same portion of the river, but those who choose the two-day rafting trip will enjoy an overnight stay at an ecologically sensitive retreat along the banks of the Pacuare River. National Geographic has recently hailed the Pacuare Lodge’s first-class fare and lavish accommodations as one of the world’s finest retreats.
